Torre Civica of Forli, municipal clock tower in Forlì, Italy
The Torre Civica of Forli is a belfry standing approximately 72 meters (236 feet) tall in the center of the city with thick brick walls and a solid foundation. It features four clock faces, one on each side, and its structure includes small openings for light and ventilation throughout its levels.
The tower was constructed on foundations of a Roman tower base and developed its current form over centuries through several reconstructions. An earthquake in 1781 damaged its top, which was later rebuilt with an octagonal lantern, and German forces nearly destroyed it in November 1944 during World War II.
The tower's name refers to its role as a civic building serving the whole community. The bells inside once called firefighters, signaled school hours, and marked time throughout the day, making the tower part of people's daily routines.
The tower is visible from outside and can be viewed from Piazza Saffi, where cafes and small markets invite visitors to linger in the area. It is not possible to climb the tower today, but walking around it allows you to observe the architectural details and appreciate its construction up close.
The tower was rebuilt between 1975 and 1976 after being nearly destroyed in 1944, and is now several meters taller than the original structure, showing the city's resilience after the war. The rebuilt tower uses reinforced concrete faced with exposed brick, blending restoration with modern engineering techniques.
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